Archer Transfers

[Force]

What size Archer Transfer rivets are you using to replace missing rivets/huck bolts on 1:25 scale trucks?
I have never ordered from them... I did try to order some time ago but there was a message on the website that they had closed up shop and didn't take any more orders, but appearently they have changed their mind because the website is up again and it's possible to shop.
I have no clue what size rivets will work for the cabs on the 1:25 truck kits and so I need suggestions, because I'm about to place an order.

[Ace-Garageguy]

I don't have 'em here to check specific dimensions and part numbers, but initially I bought several "starter sets" in multiple scales to determine exactly what I'd need for various projects re: spacing, layout, and head diameter.

In reality, round rivet head diameters on aluminum truck cab skins would probably come in at .250" (1/4") to .375" (3/8") (chassis or trailer skin rivets could typically be much larger), so working out the appropriate scale dimension is straightforward (Archer shows what the full-scale head diameters would be on each sheet in the nominal scale it's intended for, so some simple math is required to figure out what you'll need).

EXAMPLE:    O-scale, approx. 1:48, starter sheet showing nominal 5/8" and 7/8" rivet heads. Used in 1:24 scale these would represent 5/16" and 7/16" heads respectively.

EDIT: in reality, a 3/8" (.375") rivet head would usually have something close to a 3/16" shank (.1875"), a very common size used in aluminum aircraft, truck cab, and trailer fabrication.

Note: of course, in the real world, rivets are sized and described by shank diameter, not head diameter.  

So just for reference, here's a page showing the most common round-head aluminum rivets. Note they're sized by SHANK diameter. To get dimensions for the corresponding HEAD diameter, google the appropriate AN or NAS part number to pull up manufacturers dimension specs and/or dimensioned drawings.

https://www.aircraftspruce.com/catalog/hapages/solidalumrivets2.php

Edited September 7, 2023 by Ace-Garageguy

[peteski]

I seem to recall a mention that Archer Transfers closed shop not too long ago.  It is good to see that they are still open for business.